Ecosystem Ecology Course Constructs Micromet Tower

Last week, students in Jackie’s Wellesley College course BISC 307: Ecosystem Ecology, constructed and installed a micrometeorological flux tower to measure ecosystem-microclimate feedbacks on Wellesley’s campus. We installed the tower within a woodland dell area, which is slated for restoration next year as part of the Paulson Ecology of Place Initiative. The tower is gathering baseline data, so that in future years we can compare the ecosystem energy and water fluxes after hydrology flows are restored to the area in efforts to promote amphibian habitat. This was a great real-world active learning experience for the students, and a wonderful opportunity to enjoy time outside!